Obituary - Virgil Allen Lessenden

Memorial photo for Virgil Allen Lessenden

Virgil Allen Lessenden passed away peacefully at home December 22, 2024. He was born June 2, 1940, to Virgil Field Lessenden and Ida Marie (Pollreis) Lessenden in Kit Carson.

The family lived on the family farm until he was three years old, and moved to their new home west of Eads.

Virgil had two older sisters, Doris and Virgyln, and a little brother, Dwight. They all enjoyed living in the country, and were all involved in 4-H. Virgil was very active in 4-H and square dancing. He attended school in Eads and graduated in 1958. Then he attended Lamar Community College for two years and joined the Geotechnical Survey crew and traveled to many places for work.

October 12, 1963, Virgil married the love of his life, Wanda Luciel Ball. They met at Cheyenne Frontier Days and married three months later. They were blessed with three children, Glenda Stoker, Shannon Dixon, and Shane Lessenden.

They moved to Arlington after their marriage, and Virgil worked for Harold Wyckoff for many years. In 1978, Virgil and Wanda purchased land eight miles northwest of Arlington and made this their home for 44 years.

He worked for Kutch & Reed for several years, and then worked for Kiowa County Road and Bridge. In 2008, he retired. In 2022, they sold the ranch and moved to Haswell.

Virgil and Wanda loved to dance. If there was music, they could be found out on the floor kicking up their heels. They would attend as many dances as possible.

After retirement, Virgil and Wanda enjoyed many bus trip adventures and taking care of their cattle. He enjoyed watching his grandchildren in all of their sporting events and other activities. He loved spending time with the grandchildren and they loved their time with him.

Virgil had many friends, and knew no strangers. He had a friendly word to say to everyone. He showed his love with his signature pat to the back.

Virgil is preceded in death by his parents, Virgil and Ida Lessenden; brother-in-law, Ray Griswould; and sister-in-law, Bonnie Lessenden.

He is survived by his wife, Wanda Lessenden of Haswell; children, Glenda (Paul) Stoker of Haswell, Shannon (Michael) Dixon of Eads, and Shane (PJ) Lessenden of Haswell; grandchildren, Dally (Nick) Lessenden, Shane (Mikkel) Lessenden, Marisa (Grady) Dixon, Dylan Dixon, Blake (Kodie) Stoker, and Colby (Tyler) Hill; nine great grandchildren; sisters, Doris Lessenden and Virgyln Griswouldl; brother, Dwight Lessenden; and many nieces and nephews.

Here are a few Virgil-isms: